That's a good point. At this juncture, I'm just trying to get out of the next MC appointment by whatever means possible. Granted, she can't force me into the car, but I'd like for it to stop being a point of contention. I tried saying I wanted to fixate on IC for now, but she seems pretty latched on, thinking the MC is going to help nudge me toward the door (of my own house).
Hello Doug,
"Trying to get out of MC" sounds co-dependent. It invites attempts to manipulate you. A firm "No" is less contentious. Say it once, then stop talking. An argument requires two people.
If it helps, imagine your son has asked for something outlandish--like driving your car at age 6. He really wants to. It's important to him after watching Lightning McQueen. After you say no, he's angry and sad. Level 1: Can you be firm with your decision and neither get "volatile" nor hand him the car keys? Level 2: Can you listen and validate how he expressed he feels without making light of him, nor ever entertaining the notion of choosing a different outcome?
